Kensington iPod and iPhone LiquidAUX Deluxe car kit

Such is the popularity of the iPod, many car manufacturers now include standard auxiliary inputs for their stereos, so drivers can plug in their Apple device. But most connections don’t charge or control it – and that’s where Kensington’s new LiquidAUX kit comes in.

The Deluxe model tested here has a ‘smart cradle’ which can hold your iPod in both landscape and portrait modes. In the former, it only releases the top arm to prevent dock damage. The sliding 30-pin connector also works well, providing a perfect fit for a variety of Apple models.

The plastics used look good, if a little shiny, but they were a touch prone to marking if carelessly handled. Charging is via the cigarette lighter plug, which fitted well. However, the steering wheel remote wasn’t quite so convincing. There was quite a lengthy delay between commands and responses, plus the mount itself takes a bit of getting used to.

Being able to charge your iPod as you use it is a handy feature, and the Kensington unit is a decent solution. But you pay a relatively high price for the extra functions.